Costo is renowned for its vast aisles and unbeatable prices on almost everything. The prepared foods department stands out, especially for busy individuals seeking quality and convenience without the hefty price tag.
Beef-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Costco’s beef stuffed peppers offer a delightful solution for those seeking a nutritious and budget-friendly meal option. This dish overflows with a flavorful mixture of rice and beef. All these are enveloped in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese. The convenience factor is undeniable; as it only takes a couple of minutes in the oven or microwave to have dinner on the table.
At just $4.99 per pound, these protein-packed peppers provide exceptional value. What truly sets them apart is their homemade taste, with flavors and textures that offer a comfortable and satisfying meal experience.
Rotisserie Chicken
Costco’s rotisserie chicken has achieved cult status among shoppers for good reason. The chicken weighing a hefty three pounds offers a perfect balance of juicy tenderness and savory flavor that appeals to a wide range of palates. Priced at an unbeatable $4.99, they represent a meal option that can easily feed a family of four. The deli’s continuous production ensures a study supply of fresh chicken throughout the day. Moreover, this dish abides by the strict USDA regulations and ensures your meat is fresh.
Yakisoba Stir Fry
The Yakisoba Stir Fry of Costco has won over many skeptics with its convenient preparation and restaurant-quality taste. The meal comes together in merely 10 minutes, offering a delicious alternative to greasy takeout. While some were initially wary of the pre-cooked dark meat chicken, the generous portion of fresh vegetables has become a major selling point. The kit costs about $15.63 with its main quirk lying in its sauce and it comes in two large containers.
Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes
Costco’s meatloaf and mashed potatoes combo hit all the right notes for a satisfying weekend dinner. This classic comfort food duo offers generous portions and homestyle flavors without the hassle of expensive preparation. The tender, juicy meatloaf comes with a tangy ketchup glaze, perfectly complementing the creamy mashed potatoes. It is a wallet-friendly option at just $3.99 per pound. The secret to its popularity lies in its daily preparation using fresh ingredients and a proprietary seasoning blend. It only takes about an hour to cook this delicious dinner with a bonus of minimal cleanup if eaten directly from the tree
Chili
The beef chili of Costco stirred up quite a debate among shoppers since its return in late 2023. Controversy arose over the recipe’s incorporation of beans. Some embraced the hearty addition while others insisted that it should be bean-free. Despite the controversy, most reviewers agree that the substantial tub is worth trying. The Chili boasts a rich blend of seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, onions, green, and a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. At $3.49 per pound for a four-pound tub, it offers excellent value for a flavorful, satisfying meal. Its versatility shines through its ability to freeze, making it a convenient option for meal planning and busy weekends.
Pepperoni Pizza
Pizza with pepperoni from Costco has been a staple in food courts. However, many shoppers do not realize they can take home an entirely freshly baked pie for an unbeatable price. At just $9.95 for a 12-slice pizza, it is significantly cheaper than most delivery options. The generous portion of pepperoni and perfect cheese-to-sauce ratio make it a crowd-pleaser for families and gatherings. To ensure the freshest pizza possible, shoppers can place their orders before starting their shopping trip. This little-known hack allows customers to pick up a piping hot pizza on their way out. Eliminates the need for meal press and provides an instant solution for hungry households.
Chicken Street Tacos
The Chicken Street taco kit provides a flavorful experience. This meal solution includes juicy, well-seasoned chicken, shredded cheese, corn tortillas, cabbage slaw, zesty salsa, and lime cilantro crema. This kit strikes a perfect balance between convenience and flavor, with the chicken boasting a blend of smokey and mildly spicy seasoning. Priced at approximately $15 per package or $5.49 per pound, it provides enough ingredients for 12 generously filled tacos. This makes it an excellent value for families or individuals looking for multiple meals. The ease of preparation- simply heat, assemble, and eat- combined with its authentic days makes this kit stand out.
Enchilada Bake with Rotisserie Chicken
Costco’s enchilada bake takes their famous rotisserie chicken to new heights. Chicken shredded properly covered in a smoky enchilada sauce is the highlight of this dish. It is wrapped in tortillas with pinto beans and topped with a generous layer of melted cheese, and colorful diced bell peppers. It is a one-dish wonder that transforms Costco’s rotisserie chicken into a flavorful, Mexican-inspired feast. This substantial portion size is a major selling point, easily feeding six to eight people when paired with a side salad or rice. At roughly $4 or less per serving, it offers excellent value for money. Even for smaller households, the leftovers are a bonus, as the flavors tend to melt and improve over the day or two in the fridge. This makes this more delicious.
Southwest Wrap
Costco’s grab-and-go wraps present a mixed bag for busy shoppers seeking quick meal solutions. While the convenience factor is undeniable, these wraps need to be consumed within a few days to avoid a rapid decline in quality. Wraps featuring Costco’s popular rotisserie chicken, such as the Southwest chicken variety is a flavorful dish. It is available from $6.99 per pound and differs based on the type of meat and location.
Gyro Meal Kit
The gyro meal kit of Costco offers an interesting option for those craving Mediterranean flavors at home. While options on this product vary, it does provide a convenient way to enjoy gyro without the need for time-consuming preparation. This kit includes a variety of vegetables, which adds freshness and nutritional value to the meal. This pre-cooked meat saves time and is available at $6.49 per pound.